🚆 BANGKOK TO VIENTIANE BY TRAIN
Travelling from Bangkok to Vientiane by train is one of the easiest ways to reach Laos by rail. The route connects Thailand's classic railway network with the modern Laos rail system, with border formalities handled at the stations. There are two main options — a direct sleeper from Bangkok, or the more comfortable CNR sleeper to Nong Khai with a connection across the border.
🧭 Quick Overview
Distance~650 km
Journey Time10–13 hours
Direct TrainYes (No. 133)
Best OptionSleeper + connection
BorderNong Khai → Vientiane
🔍 Bangkok to Vientiane Train Timetable (2026)
Search all trains on this route, or browse the full timetable for every service:
💡 Tip: Use Bangkok (All Terminals) to see all departures from across the city.
🚆 Which Train Should I Take?
🚆
Rapid No. 133 — Direct to Vientiane (Khamsavath)
The only direct train from Bangkok all the way to Vientiane. Uses older rolling stock with sleeper berths and seating. Crosses the Thailand–Laos border and continues into Laos without any transfer.
👉 Best for a simple, no-transfer journey at an affordable price
⭐
Special Express No. 25 (CNR sleeper) + connection at Nong Khai — Recommended
Modern CNR trainset with 1st Class private cabins, 2nd Class sleepers with curtains, power outlets at every berth, and a dining car. Travel overnight Bangkok → Nong Khai, then connect to Train 133 to cross the border into Laos.
👉 Best for comfort, modern facilities, and overall experience
🚉 Nong Khai to Vientiane (Khamsavath)
The cross-border leg from Nong Khai into Laos is operated as part of Train 133. It's a short journey, and the connection from Nong Khai is straightforward for travellers arriving on the overnight train from Bangkok.
This is the final leg into Laos — once across the border, you arrive directly at Vientiane (Khamsavath) station.
🛂 Border Crossing
Border formalities are handled at the stations — you remain within the rail system throughout. There is no need to transfer between separate checkpoints:
1Nong Khai Station (Thailand) — Thai immigration departure stamp
2Cross the Friendship Bridge by train
3Vientiane (Khamsavath) Station (Laos) — Laos immigration entry stamp
4Continue into Vientiane or connect onward
💡 Make sure you have your Laos visa arranged before travelling. An e-visa is available online.
📍 Arrival in Vientiane (Khamsavath)
Vientiane (Khamsavath) station is located outside the city centre. From the station you can:
- Take a shuttle bus into central Vientiane (~30 minutes)
- Arrange a taxi or private transfer
- Connect to the Laos–China high-speed railway station (~30 minutes away)
🇱🇦 Continuing Your Journey
From Vientiane, you can connect to the Laos–China high-speed railway for onward travel:
- Vang Vieng — approximately 1 hour
- Luang Prabang — approximately 2 hours
- Kunming, China — approximately 10 hours via the full Laos–China route
This makes the Bangkok–Vientiane train journey a natural starting point for a much longer overland trip through Southeast Asia and into China.
🎟️ Tickets and Booking
Booking in advance is recommended for the Thai section, especially for sleeper berths:
- Bangkok → Nong Khai — book early, CNR sleepers fill up quickly
- Direct Train No. 133 — can also fill up, particularly in high season
- Nong Khai → Vientiane — usually arranged as part of the through journey on Train 133
📍 Choosing the Best Option
| Your Priority | Best Choice |
|---|
| Simplest journey, no transfers | Rapid No. 133 direct to Vientiane |
| Most comfortable and modern | Special Express No. 25 (CNR sleeper) + connection at Nong Khai |
| Connect to Laos–China high-speed rail | Either option — both arrive at Vientiane (Khamsavath) |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Bangkok to Vientiane?
Yes — Rapid No. 133 runs directly from Bangkok to Vientiane (Khamsavath), crossing the border without any transfer.
Which train is best?
Special Express No. 25 (CNR sleeper) to Nong Khai offers the most comfortable overnight experience, with a short connection to cross the border.
Where do I go through immigration?
Thai immigration is at Nong Khai station, and Laos immigration is at Vientiane (Khamsavath) station — both inside the rail system.
How do I get into central Vientiane from the station?
A shuttle bus or taxi from Khamsavath station takes around 30 minutes to reach the city centre.
Do I need a visa for Laos?
Most nationalities can obtain a Laos e-visa online before travelling. Check the official Laos e-visa website for the latest requirements.
ℹ️
This website is not affiliated with the State Railway of Thailand or Lao National Railways. All times are subject to change. Check visa requirements before travelling to Laos.